Elyot is heading to WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 to represent the United Kingdom in Aircraft Maintenance, following a competition journey that has taken him from apprentice to Team UK competitor.
His WorldSkills UK journey began after being introduced to the competition through his apprenticeship provider. Initially mentioned as an opportunity within his training programme, Elyot decided to put his hand up and take part – a decision that would go on to shape his career in aviation.
Reflecting on how it all began, Elyot said:
“I just put my hand up and thought, why not give it a go, and it has turned into one of the best opportunities I have had. WorldSkills UK has pushed me in ways I did not expect and really helped me grow in confidence and skill.”
From the outset, Elyot knew aviation was the field he wanted to work in. Choosing an apprenticeship felt like a natural path, allowing him to combine his passion for practical, hands-on engineering with real industry experience.
“I’ve always been interested in aircraft and how they work. I enjoy being hands-on and solving problems, so an apprenticeship in aviation was the perfect route for me.”
In 2024, Elyot competed at the WorldSkills UK National Finals, where he achieved a Gold Medal in Aircraft Maintenance, marking a significant milestone in his development. His success led to selection for Squad UK and, ultimately, Team UK, where he continues to refine his technical skills in preparation for international competition.
One of the biggest challenges Elyot has faced is balancing the demands of training, work and personal commitments. While preparing for WorldSkills Shanghai requires significant dedication, he describes the experience as highly rewarding and worth the effort.
A key part of his development journey has been the support of his employer, The Shuttleworth Collection. The organisation has provided access to equipment, workshop space and opportunities to practise outside of formal training sessions, helping Elyot continue developing his skills at an elite level.
Being selected for Team UK was one of the proudest moments of Elyot’s career so far.
“When I found out I’d been selected for Team UK, it was a huge moment. All the hard work, training and sacrifices had paid off. To know I’ll be representing the UK at WorldSkills Shanghai is something I’m incredibly proud of.”
Elyot recently took part in international preparation activity in China, where competitors were able to experience specialist competition equipment and gain a better understanding of what to expect in Shanghai. Alongside this, he trains regularly with his Training Manager, focusing on different aircraft systems and technical modules to ensure he is fully prepared for the challenges ahead.
Looking ahead to WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, Elyot is most excited about meeting and learning from competitors from around the world.
He said: “It’s exciting and a little bit daunting at the same time. I’m looking forward to seeing how people from different countries approach the same challenges and testing myself against some of the best young aircraft maintenance technicians in the world.”
For Elyot, one of the most valuable aspects of WorldSkills UK has been the people he has met along the way. He believes the competitions provide a unique opportunity to develop technical skills, build confidence and create connections across the industry.
Reflecting on his journey so far, he said: “I never expected it to lead to opportunities like this, but WorldSkills UK has genuinely changed the direction of my career. It has pushed me to a level I did not think I could reach, and I am proud of how far I have come.”
As he prepares to represent Team UK on the world stage, Elyot hopes his story will encourage others to take opportunities when they arise. From putting his hand up for a competition to preparing for the world’s largest skills event, his journey shows how far determination, hard work and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone can take you.
